Ensuring the health and well-being of your cat is a top priority. A proper vaccination schedule is crucial for feline healthcare, and this guide provides comprehensive information on vaccinations for both kittens and adult cats. By understanding the importance of vaccinations and following a recommended schedule, you can protect your furry friends from serious diseases and keep them safe and healthy.

Why Vaccination?

Vaccination plays a pivotal role in mitigating and eradicating the risk of fatal diseases, a practice that has proven its efficacy over the years and is now widely embraced by veterinarians. As cats have become beloved companions in many households, ensuring their protection through vaccination is paramount.

Cat vaccines are divided into two main categories: Core Vaccines and Non-Core Vaccines.

Core Vaccines

These are essential vaccinations that shield cats from the most serious and prevalent diseases. Administering these vaccines is crucial for maintaining a cat’s health and safety. Core vaccines protect against:

• Feline Panleukopenia: A highly contagious and often fatal viral disease.
• Feline Calicivirus Infection: Causes respiratory infections and oral disease.
• Feline Rhinotracheitis: Also known as feline herpesvirus, leading to severe respiratory issues.
• Rabies: A fatal viral disease that can also be transmitted to humans, making vaccination critical for public health.

Non-Core Vaccines

While not mandatory, these vaccines offer additional protection against less common diseases. They are recommended based on a cat's lifestyle and environment. Non-core vaccines protect against:

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): A virus that can cause cancer and immunosuppression.
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Similar to HIV in humans, it weakens the immune system.
• Bordetella bronchiseptica: A bacterial infection that can lead to respiratory issues, more commonly seen in multi-cat environments.
• Chlamydia felis: A bacterial infection causing conjunctivitis and respiratory problems.

Vaccinating cats not only ensures their well-being but also contributes to the broader effort of controlling the spread of infectious diseases. By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can help their feline friends lead longer, healthier lives.

Feline Vaccines Available in Pakistan:

Fel-O-Vax

This core vaccine protects cats against three major viral diseases: Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Rhinotracheitis, and Feline Calicivirus.

Biofel PCH

This vaccine offers the same protection as Fel-O-Vax, immunizing cats against Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Rhinotracheitis, and Feline Calicivirus.

Biofel PCHR

In addition to the coverage provided by Biofel PCH, this vaccine also immunizes cats against rabies.

Rabisin

This is the most commonly used vaccine for protecting cats against rabies.

Vaccination Schedule for Kittens:

• De-worming: Start at 40 days of age.
• First Vaccination: 7-8 weeks old, one week after deworming. Administer the first dose of Fel-O-Vax or Biofel.
• Second Vaccination: Three weeks after the first dose, administer the second shot.
• Rabies Vaccination: Two doses of the rabies vaccine are given three weeks apart, starting three weeks after the second core vaccine dose.
• Annual Booster: Ensure your cat receives an annual booster dose every year to maintain immunity.

Vaccination Schedule for Adult Cats:

• Initial Vaccination: For cats older than 4 months, Fel-O-Vax and Rabisin can be administered simultaneously or a day apart.
• Second Shot: Administer the second dose three weeks later.
• Annual Booster: Follow up with an annual booster dose every year.